Library Relocation Brings Fresh Chapter
to the Heart of Downtown
Today, June 3, the Pima County Board of Supervisors voted to purchase the former Wells Fargo Building on North Stone Avenue with the intended purpose of moving downtown's Joel D. Valdez Main library, currently located in the City of Tucson-owned building at 101 N. Stone Ave.
The City’s primary concern is that critical library services continue in the downtown area. County Administrator Jan Lesher’s memo to the Board of Supervisors dated June 2, 2025 on the subject states that the county made the decision to move locations based on “an extensive analysis and stakeholder engagement process” and the resulting move that “supports continued and enhanced library services in the downtown area.” Library staff signified their support for the move to the Wells Fargo building.
"Making sure everyone in our community has access to high quality libraries is so important. Libraries are hubs for people to gather, access internet and computers, jobs and cooling, books and media, and even seeds," said Tucson Mayor Regina Romero. "Today's Board of Supervisors’ vote to purchase a new Downtown Library building creates an opportunity for the City of Tucson to rethink our Stone Avenue location and re-envision this community space and all the possibilities it brings. I will be taking this conversation to my Council colleagues so we can decide next steps."
The facility at 101 N. Stone Ave. is a prime downtown location with the associated parking facility and Jácome Plaza, all of which are owned by the City of Tucson. City Manager Tim Thomure states that, "Taken in total, this property has tremendous potential. City staff welcomes the conversation with the Mayor and Council and will be ready to engage with our downtown stakeholders - and the larger community on a comprehensive plan for the facility."
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